Cloud Storage
What is a Cloud Storage?
• Cloud storage is a method of storing digital data on remote servers,
accessed via a network, typically the internet, and managed by a third-
party provider.
• This allows users to store and access their files from anywhere,
eliminating the need for physical storage devices.
• Cloud storage providers handle the infrastructure, including servers
and networks, ensuring data availability, security, and scalability.
Common cloud storage services
• Public Cloud: Storage provided by a third-party provider, where the
infrastructure is shared with multiple users.
• Private Cloud: Storage dedicated to a single organization, offering
more control and security.
• Hybrid Cloud: Combines elements of public and private clouds,
allowing organizations to choose where to store different types of data.
Benefits of using cloud storage
• Cost Savings: Eliminates the need for purchasing and maintaining physical
storage hardware.
• Accessibility: Allows users to access their data from anywhere with an internet
connection.
• Scalability: Provides the flexibility to increase or decrease storage capacity as
needed.
• Collaboration: Facilitates easy sharing and collaboration on files and documents.
• Data Backup: Provides a reliable backup solution for important data.
Storage as a Service (STaaS)
• A cloud computing model that provides on-demand storage resources over
the internet. Instead of purchasing and managing physical storage hardware,
users can subscribe to STaaS offerings from a cloud service provider.
• This allows for scalability, pay-as-you-go pricing, and centralized
management of storage resources.
Key aspects of STaaS
• On-demand access: Users can access storage resources as needed, without long-term
commitments.
• Scalability: Storage capacity can be easily increased or decreased based on demand.
• Pay-as-you-go pricing: Users only pay for the storage they actually use, eliminating upfront
costs.
• Centralized management: Storage resources can be managed through a user-friendly
interface or API.
• Data security and reliability: STaaS providers often implement robust security measures and
offer backup and recovery mechanisms.
STaaS Vendors
• Amazon Web Services (AWS)
• Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
• Microsoft Azure
• IBM Cloud
• Alibaba Cloud
• Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)
• Dell
• NetApp
Storage Types (DAS, NAS & SAN)
Storage Types
DAS NAS SAN
DAS (Directly Attached Storage)
• Small Business (Low data growth volume)
• Simple Structure
• Low Cost
• Low Maintenance
• No data sharing over network
• Connectivity options are USB (Universal Serial Bus), SATA (Serial Advanced
Technology Attachment) cables, eSATA (External Serial Advanced Technology
Attachment)
NAS (Network Attached Storage)
• Specialized computer or server (Not general purpose)
• Small to medium business
• Provides storage services to the devices on network
• IP address and network space
• Web browser
• Storage upgrade
• High flexibility and high scalability
• Connectivity options are Ethernet cable and Ethernet switch
SAN (Storage Area Network)
• Storage pool
• Medium-Large size business
• Complex Structure
• Security and High performance
• High scalability
• Used for Mission Critical Application
• Connectivity options are FC Switch (Fiber channel switch) and HBA (Host Bus Adaptor)
Challenges of SAN
• Cost: SANs can be expensive to set up and maintain, requiring specialized hardware and skilled
IT personnel.
• Complexity: Deploying, managing, and maintaining a SAN requires specialized knowledge and
expertise.
• Performance Bottlenecks: Improper design or misconfiguration can lead to performance issues,
especially in environments with high-volume data transfer requirements.
• Security Risks: SANs are vulnerable to cyber attacks and data leakage, requiring robust security
measures and employee training.
• Management Complexity: SANs require constant oversight and management, including
monitoring performance, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring proper configuration.
• Limited LAN Bandwidth Improvement: SANs may not be the best choice for environments
with intensive data transfer requirements.
Storage Types (DAS, NAS & SAN)
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